Corrie's John Thompson says Gail proposes to his character
Coronation Street's new boss Kate Brooks has spoken out about the departure of a soap legend from the ITV serial drama.
Veteran actress Helen Worth, 73, announced her decision to leave the long-running show in June, citing it as the "perfect time" to bid farewell. Having first appeared on the cobbles in 1974 as Gail Platt, she became an instant favourite among fans.
With her final scenes filmed earlier this month, her exit is set to air during the upcoming festive season, leaving fans, including Corrie's new boss, saddened by the news.
In a conversation with Plymouth Live and other press, Kate Brooks hinted at what's in store for Christmas on the cobbles, describing it as "very fun" and "really lively" with "lots of bombshells are dropped" set to drop.
Kate also revealed that the festive storyline will centre around Gail's potential wedding to Jesse Chadwick, played by John Thomson, but remained tight-lipped about the outcome, saying: "Whether she goes through with that or not, I cannot tell anything."
Furthermore, the new boss expressed her sadness about Gail's departure, stating: "I'm devastated that Gail is leaving. It really devastates me."
Kate continued: "Because she is so iconic. And I think that label gets bandied about quite readily, but it's Gail! Fifty years, she's been on the street, we've watched her grow."
Discussing Gail's final scenes, Kate remarked: "It was really important to make sure her exit and departure felt really fitting and in keeping with who she is as a character."
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Reflecting on her decision to leave in June, Helen shared: "This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world."
"I made the decision at the start of the year and spoke to the producers who were very kind and understanding. I have been truly blessed to have been given the most incredible scripts week in week out, and to have worked with fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew."
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX
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